The form and shape of traditional farms contributes a large part to our understanding of the character of the rural landscape. While providing distinctive colour and texture in the countryside, farm outbuildings have been considered primarily for their use. Where farmhouses, from thatched houses to large ‘boxcountry’ houses have been recognised for their heritage value and afforded individual protection, it is only in the very recent past that there has been an official awareness of the value of their attendant buildings.
Changes in the law and practice of architectural conservation in Ireland over the past fifteen years have led to the development of new supports for owners of heritage buildings. These have included grant schemes, the greater availability of skilled personnel and guidance for owners. In 2006 the REPS 4 Traditional Farm Buildings Grant Scheme (REPS 4 TFB) was initiated to provide direct funding for the repair of old farm buildings. The LEADER programme also provides indirect funding by supporting the use and re-use of farm buildings as part of the diversification of farm activity. This case study examines the experience of three farmers who conserved their old farm buildings by means of direct and indirect funding.
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Source: HortiTrends News Room
